The exotic destination I selected for my wife and I this year was Greer, South Carolina. Why Greer? It is home to BMW’s U.S. Rider Academy, arguably one of the top motorcycle training facilities in North America. I signed up for a five-day motorcycle bootcamp, which consists of two days on pavement, two days off-road and one day out and back in the Blue Ridge Mountains north … [Read more...] about BMW U.S. Rider Academy: An Investment in Yourself
blue ridge mountains
Exits and Returns: Three Weeks from Appalachia to the Rockies
The mountains hang like a dream — one that is unseen but sensed, like Kafka’s castle, haunted by places unknown and untouched, yet somehow familiar. This collection of memories, like the Midwest roads that bridge them, begins last July. On that humid afternoon, I packed and strapped the back of the Bonneville with a three-week haul of supplies: sleeping bag, tent, clothes, a … [Read more...] about Exits and Returns: Three Weeks from Appalachia to the Rockies
The Blue Ridge Mountains: Of what was and shall ever be
North Carolina is a collection of wonderful regions and places, from the mountains to the sea. Each is different of course, with its own geography to be savored on two wheels. It is remarkably easy to avoid being trapped on highways and allow oneself to be consumed by the beauty of the byways. Along the way, the people are terrific as well, with different traditions and foods … [Read more...] about The Blue Ridge Mountains: Of what was and shall ever be
Escarpment escape: Two-wheeled heaven along The Blue Wall
Ancient and weathered it stands like a sentinel at the gates of another realm. Seen from the foothills of the piedmont, the Blue Ridge Escarpment rises suddenly to divide the land, allowing passage through only a handful of mountain roads. Savvy motorcyclists gather along these roads to experience the sudden 2,000-plus climb over the Eastern Continental Divide into Western … [Read more...] about Escarpment escape: Two-wheeled heaven along The Blue Wall
Stops for beer, wine or spirits
Ah, those glorious summer days filled with long rides through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The warm weather, blue skies and yet-to-be discovered roadside stops always enhance the riding experience for many motorcyclists. The questions always arise: Where are we going to stop for lunch? Want to grab a beer? The Southern Appalachian Mountains feature plenty of ale houses, taprooms, … [Read more...] about Stops for beer, wine or spirits
